A robotics class at the TGR Learning Lab Anaheim was the start of Daniel Biviano Rayo’s journey to a career in education. His experiences expanded his love for learning and developed his desire to pay it forward. From early elementary to post-secondary education, Rayo has continued to pursue opportunities to empower students as an educator while also fulfilling his own professional development as a lifelong learner.
He returned to the Learning Lab as a professional and recently took time to reflect on his journey and share highlights as we celebrate 30 years of driving dreams together, presented by EY.
TGR Foundation: Where do you currently live and work?
I currently live in Orange County, CA and work as an educator at the TGR Learning Lab Anaheim.
TGR Foundation: How did you end up in your career? Describe your path.
My journey with the Learning Lab started in my freshman year. My older brother at the time was still a senior, and he told me that he signed up for robotics. Being the younger brother, I wanted to tag along, and I filled out the application as well. So, we both came to the Learning Lab together.
My experiences at the Lab really shaped my desire to give back to the community. So, I continued in the after-school program. That’s where I started my professional career.
TGR Foundation: Describe an average day in your life as a professional.
An average day at the Lab starts with prep time for our day program class for our 5th grade students. The second half of the day is prep and teaching our Expanded Learning program. I teach different classes from drones, sports science and robotics. I also train our Running Team.
TGR Foundation: What is the most rewarding element of your career?
When I come into this [Learning Lab] building, it’s just excitement to learn and more importantly, make a difference for students and assist them so that they can reach the next level.
TGR Foundation: What did you dream of as a TGR Learning Lab member that you’ve seen come true?
When I was younger, I did want to be a teacher; being an instructor here has really given me an opportunity to give back and teach the students to pursue their passions.
TGR Foundation: What accomplishment(s) on your college and career journey are you most proud of?
I am most proud of being the first person in my family to graduate with my master’s degree.
TGR Foundation: What is your favorite memory with TGR Foundation?
My favorite memory at TGR Foundation is getting together with coworkers after work to play soccer. Soccer Tuesday became a weekly event to have fun and get to know my team.
TGR Foundation: How do you continue to learn as a professional?
As a professional, I continue to learn by reading research articles and collaborating with my colleagues.
TGR Foundation: What advice would you give to students who are interested in becoming an educator?
A piece of advice I would give to future educators is to create a culture of learning. To teach our students to not be afraid to make mistakes and to try new things.
TGR Foundation: What’s one resource that helped you drive your dreams forward that every student should have?
One thing that really helped me drive forward was supportive friends and family. The work/school/life balance can be difficult to manage. You need to make time to enjoy and celebrate our accomplishments. Celebrate the hard work you do.
TGR Foundation: What are you most looking forward to in the next five years?
My next goal is to be a professor, continue to give back to students and inspire the next generation of learners and leaders.
A place that feels like a dream and everyone should visit at least once?
Egypt is a place people should visit at least once. The people in the country were all welcoming and were proud to share the history. Whether you are in the Valley of Kings, the Pyramids, temples or the Nile River, the history and importance of human history feel like a dream.
What are three unique items in your work bag or desk?
Unique item on my desk are the gifts and cards students have given me throughout my time teaching. Another unique item is the business card of my previous job at Compton College. It is a reminder of the importance of mental health. Another item is a collectable Pokémon card, that reminds me of my roots and childhood dreams.
Top three places to visit in Orange County.
The top three places to visit in Orange County are:
- Disneyland to enjoy a magical experience.
- Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point to enjoy the beautiful California weather
- the Anaheim Packing District Food Hall to enjoy the food options from different cultures.
TGR Foundation has been driving dreams together in under-resourced communities since 1996. As we celebrate our 30-year anniversary, presented by EY, this series celebrates the impact of our programs and the accomplishments of esteemed alumni.
Learn more at TGRFoundation.org.
